Vehicles and vehicle parts

Abstract

To provide vehicles and vehicle parts with high storage capacity. [Solution] Vehicle 1 comprises a front unit 10 having front wheels 11, a rear unit 20 having rear wheels 21, and a connecting portion 30 provided between the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20, which detachably connects the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20. Vehicle 1 is configured to be drivable when the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are connected by the connecting portion 30.

Description

Technical Field

[0008] , ,

[0001] The present invention relates to vehicles and vehicle parts.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, various technologies have been proposed for foldable vehicles such as foldable bicycles (for example, Patent Document 1, etc.).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The above object of the present invention is achieved as follows.

[0006] (1) A vehicle comprising a front unit having a front wheel, a rear unit having a rear wheel, and a connection portion provided between the front unit and the rear unit for separably connecting the front unit and the rear unit, and being capable of running when the front unit and the rear unit are connected by the connection portion.

[0007] (2) The vehicle according to (1) above, wherein the front unit includes a front frame to which the front wheel is attached and a steering device for receiving steering by an occupant.

[0008] (3) The vehicle according to (1) or (2) above, wherein the rear unit includes a rear frame to which the rear wheels are attached and a passenger support section capable of supporting a passenger.

[0009] (4) The vehicle according to (2) above, further comprising a steering fixing portion capable of preventing the rotation of the steering device when the front unit and the rear unit are separated.

[0010] (5) The vehicle according to (4) above, wherein the steering device includes a handle that is grasped by the occupant and a handle post that extends between the handle and the front frame, and the steering fixing portion includes a first bending mechanism that makes the handle post foldable and a second bending mechanism that makes the handle foldable.

[0011] (6) The vehicle according to (1) or (2) above, further comprising a motor for driving at least one of the front wheels and the rear wheels, and a battery for supplying power to the motor.

[0012] (7) The vehicle described in (6) above, wherein the battery and the motor are provided in the rear unit.

[0013] (8) The vehicle according to (6) above, wherein the battery is provided in the front unit and the motor is provided in the rear unit.

[0014] (9) The vehicle according to (7) or (8) above, further comprising an electromagnetic brake mechanism that uses the motor to electromagnetically brake the rear wheels.

[0015] (10) The vehicle described in (6) above, wherein the battery and the motor are provided in the front unit.

[0016] (11) The vehicle according to (6) above, wherein the motor is provided in the front unit and the battery is provided in the rear unit.

[0017] The vehicle according to (10) or (11) above, further comprising an electromagnetic brake mechanism that electromagnetically brakes the front wheels using the motor.

[0018] The vehicle according to (12) above, comprising a mechanical brake mechanism that mechanically brakes the rear wheels and a wire that detachably connects the rear wheels and the front unit.

[0019] The vehicle according to (6) above, wherein the connection part includes a connector that electrically connects the front unit and the rear unit.

[0020] The vehicle according to (1), (2) or (6) above, having a first control unit that controls the vehicle to be inoperable when the front unit and the rear unit are separated.

[0021] The vehicle according to (6) above, further comprising a second control unit that varies the output control of the motor according to the type of the front unit connected to the connection part.

[0022] The vehicle according to (1) or (2) above, further comprising an insertion member that can be inserted between the front unit and the rear unit when the front unit and the rear unit are connected by the connection part.

[0023] The vehicle according to (1) or (2) above, further comprising a binding member that bundles the front unit and the rear unit when the front unit and the rear unit are separated.

[0024] A vehicle component comprising a front unit to which a front wheel can be attached, a rear unit to which a rear wheel can be attached, and a connection part provided between the front unit and the rear unit and detachably connecting the front unit and the rear unit.

Advantages of the Invention

[0025] In the vehicle and vehicle parts according to the present invention, since the front unit and the rear unit are configured to be separable, the user of the vehicle can store the front unit and the rear unit in a separated state. As a result, the degree of freedom in arranging the front unit and the rear unit is improved. Therefore, it is possible to improve the storage performance of the vehicle and vehicle parts.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] It is a side view showing an example of the configuration of a vehicle in a drivable state according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a side view showing an example of a state where the front unit and the rear unit shown in FIG. 1 are separated. [Figure 3] It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control system of the vehicle shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 4] It is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the steering wheel shown in FIG. 1 and the like. [Figure 5] It is a top view showing an example of the configuration near the connection part shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 6A] It is a side view showing an example of the arrangement of the front unit and the rear unit shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 6B] It is a top view showing an example of the configuration of the front unit and the rear unit shown in FIG. 6A. [Figure 7A] It is a side view showing another example of the arrangement of the front unit and the rear unit shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 7B] It is a top view showing an example of the configuration of the front unit and the rear unit shown in FIG. 7A. [Figure 8A] It is a side view showing another example of the arrangement of the front unit and the rear unit shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 8B] It is a top view showing an example of the configuration of the front unit and the rear unit shown in FIG. 8A. [Figure 9A]Figure 2 is a side view showing an example of the configuration of the binding member that bundles the front unit and rear unit together. [Figure 9B] Figure 9A is a top view showing an example of the configuration of the front unit, rear unit, and binding member. [Figure 10] This is a side view showing an example of the vehicle configuration according to Modification Example 1. [Figure 11] This is a side view showing an example of the vehicle configuration according to Modification Example 2. [Figure 12] This is a side view showing an example of the vehicle configuration related to Modification Example 3. [Figure 13] This is a side view showing an example of the vehicle configuration according to Modification 4. [Figure 14] This is a side view showing an example of the vehicle configuration according to Modification 5. [Figure 15A] This is a side view showing an example of the configuration near the connection part of a vehicle according to Modification 6. [Figure 15B] Figure 15A shows an example of the configuration of the upper surface near the connection point. [Figure 16A] Figure 15A is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the front frame and rear frame are separated. [Figure 16B] Figure 16A is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the front and rear frames are connected. [Figure 17A] This is another partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the front and rear frames shown in Figure 15A are separated. [Figure 17B] Figure 17A is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the front frame and the rear frame are connected. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] Embodiments of the vehicle and vehicle parts of the present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used for identical components. Furthermore, the dimensional ratios in the drawings are exaggerated for illustrative purposes and may differ from actual ratios.

[0028] [Embodiment] <Vehicle 1 configuration> Figures 1, 2, and 3 show the configuration of the main parts of a vehicle 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 1 is a side view showing an example of the configuration of vehicle 1 in a drivable state, and Figure 2 is a side view showing an example of the configuration of vehicle 1 when stored or transported. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the control system of vehicle 1. Vehicle 1 is, for example, a motorized bicycle. Vehicle 1 is, for example, a specific small motorized bicycle. Vehicle 1 may also be a general motorized bicycle.

[0029] This vehicle 1 mainly consists of a front unit 10, a rear unit 20, a connecting section 30, and a control unit 100. When vehicle 1 is in a drivable state, the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are arranged side by side in the direction of travel of vehicle 1. The connecting section 30 is provided between the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20. The connecting section 30 connects the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 so that they can be separated. For example, when the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are separated, vehicle 1 is stored (Figure 2).

[0030] In the following explanation, the direction parallel to the direction of travel of vehicle 1 may be referred to as the X direction, the direction parallel to the vertical direction as the Z direction, and the direction perpendicular to the X and Z directions as the Y direction.

[0031] The front unit 10 includes, for example, front wheels 11, a front frame 12, a steering device 13, headlights 14, and a mechanical brake mechanism 61. The front wheels 11, steering device 13, and headlights 14 are mounted to the front frame 12. The front wheels 11, steering device 13, and headlights 14 may be directly or indirectly mounted to the front frame 12.

[0032] The front wheel 11 is, for example, a tire and is configured to be rotatable. The front frame 12 includes plate-shaped members and columnar members, etc., that constitute the skeleton of the front unit 10. The front frame 12 includes, for example, a columnar member having a predetermined size in the X direction.

[0033] The steering device 13 accepts steering input from the occupant. The occupant may be the user of the vehicle 1, or a person other than the user. The steering device 13 includes, for example, a steering wheel 131, a steering post 132, and an operation receiving unit 133.

[0034] Figure 4 shows an example of the specific configuration of the steering wheel 131. The steering wheel 131 has, for example, a pair of gripping parts 1311R and 1311L. The occupant steers the vehicle 1 by gripping this pair of gripping parts 1311R and 1311L. The gripping parts 1311R and 1311L have, for example, a rod shape. These gripping parts 1311R and 1311L are configured to be rotatable in the XY plane with position 131F as the pivot point. By rotating these gripping parts 1311R and 1311L, the direction of the front wheels 11 changes, and the vehicle 1 is steered.

[0035] When gripped by an occupant, the rod-shaped gripping portions 1311R and 1311L extend substantially linearly along the Y direction, for example. The handle 131 has a folding mechanism that makes these gripping portions 1311R and 1311L foldable. Specifically, the gripping portions 1311R and 1311L each rotate 90 degrees in the XY plane and extend in the X direction (Figure 4). At this time, the gripping portion 1311R rotates in the XY plane with position 1311RF as the pivot point, and the gripping portion 1311L rotates in the XY plane with position 1311LF as the pivot point. Position 1311RF is a position between one end and the other end of the gripping portion 1311R, and is fixed near position 131F, for example. Position 1311LF is located between one end and the other end of the gripping portion 1311L, and is fixed, for example, near position 131F. In this way, the handle 131 has a folding mechanism, which makes it possible to reduce the space occupied by the vehicle 1 in the Y direction when stored.

[0036] The handle post 132 includes, for example, a columnar member. This handle post 132 extends between the front frame 12 and the handle 131. The handle post 132 extends, for example, in a direction intersecting the XY plane. One end of the handle post 132 is attached to the front frame 12, for example, via a mounting portion 13C. The handle 131 is attached to the other end of the handle post 132. Other members may be inserted between the other end of the handle post 132 and the handle 131, for example, a handle stem may be inserted.

[0037] The steering device 13 has a folding mechanism that makes the handle post 132 foldable. Specifically, the handle post 132 rotates approximately 90° in the XZ plane with the mounting portion 13C as a pivot point and extends in the X direction (Figure 2). In this way, the steering device 13 has a folding mechanism for the handle post 132, which makes it possible to reduce the space occupied by the vehicle 1 in the Z direction when stored. Here, this folding mechanism for the handle post 132 corresponds to one specific example of the first folding mechanism of the present invention.

[0038] Vehicle 1 has a steering fixing part that can prevent the rotation of the handle 131 with position 131F as a pivot point, for example, when the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are separated. Because Vehicle 1 has a steering fixing part, when the user transports Vehicle 1, the rotation of the handle 131 is suppressed, making it easier to transport Vehicle 1.

[0039] The steering fixing section includes, for example, a bending mechanism for the handle 131 and a bending mechanism for the handle post 132. Specifically, when the handle post 132 is bent so as to extend in the X direction (Figure 2), the handle 131 is bent across the front frame 12, and the gripping portions 1311R and 1311L extend approximately in the Z direction. In this arrangement, the presence of the front frame 12 makes it difficult for the handle 131 to rotate. The steering fixing section may also be a belt-like member or the like that prevents the rotation of the handle 131. Here, the bending mechanism for the handle 131 corresponds to a specific example of the second bending mechanism of the present invention.

[0040] The operation reception unit 133 (Figure 3) is located, for example, near the steering wheel 131. The operation reception unit 133 is configured to receive operations from the occupant. By operating the operation reception unit 133, the occupant can turn the vehicle 1 on and off, accelerate and decelerate, and operate the lights, etc. The information received by the operation reception unit 133 is sent to the control unit 100.

[0041] The headlight 14 illuminates the area in front of the vehicle 1. The headlight 14 is attached to the front frame 12, for example, via a mounting portion 14C. The control unit 100 supplies power to the headlight 14 to illuminate it (Figure 3). The headlight 14 may be configured to be bendable, for example, with the mounting portion 14C as a pivot point. Specifically, the headlight 14 rotates approximately 180° in the XZ plane with the mounting portion 14C as a pivot point and is housed in the handle post 132 extending in the X direction (Figure 2). This makes it possible to reduce the space occupied by the vehicle 1 in the Z direction when stored.

[0042] The mechanical brake mechanism 61 mechanically brakes the front wheel 11. For example, in response to the occupant's operation on the handle 131, the mechanical brake mechanism 61 mechanically stops the rotation of the front wheel 11. For example, the mechanical brake mechanism 61 includes a wire connecting the operation receiving unit 133 and the front wheel 11.

[0043] The rear unit 20 includes, for example, a rear wheel 21, a rear frame 22, a rider support 23, a rear reflector 24, a license plate 25, a taillight 26, a battery 40, a motor 50, and an electromagnetic brake mechanism 62. The rear wheel 21, rear frame 22, rider support 23, rear reflector 24, license plate 25, and taillight 26 are attached to the rear frame 22. The rear wheel 21, rear frame 22, rider support 23, rear reflector 24, license plate 25, and taillight 26 may be directly attached to the rear frame 22 or indirectly attached.

[0044] The rear wheel 21 is, for example, a tire and is configured to be rotatable. The rear frame 22 includes plate-shaped members and columnar members, etc., that constitute the skeleton of the rear unit 20. The rear frame 22 includes, for example, a columnar member having a predetermined size in the X direction.

[0045] The rider support section 23 is configured to support a rider. The rider support section 23 includes, for example, a saddle 231 and a seat post 232. The saddle 231 has a shape on which a rider can sit. The rider sits on the saddle 231 while riding the vehicle 1. The rider support section 23 may have a seat instead of the saddle 231.

[0046] The seatpost 232 includes, for example, a columnar member. This seatpost 232 extends between the rear frame 22 and the saddle 231. The seatpost 232 extends, for example, in a direction intersecting the XY plane. The magnitude of the seatpost 232's extension is configured to be adjustable. One end of the seatpost 232 is attached, for example, to the rear frame 22. The other end of the seatpost 232 is attached to the saddle 231.

[0047] The rear reflector 24 reflects light from the rear of the vehicle 1, and the taillight 26 illuminates the rear of the vehicle 1. The control unit 100 supplies power to the taillight 26 to illuminate it (Figure 3). The license plate 25 has the vehicle 1's unique number and symbols written on it.

[0048] The battery 40 supplies power to the motor 50, lights, and control receiver 133, etc. The battery 40 supplies power to the motor 50, lights, and control receiver 133, etc., based on signals from the control unit 100, for example. The battery 40 is housed, for example, in the seat post 232.

[0049] The motor 50 generates power using electricity supplied from the battery 40. The motor 50 is mounted, for example, on the rear wheel 21 and drives the rear wheel 21.

[0050] The electromagnetic brake mechanism 62 uses the motor 50 to electromagnetically brake the rear wheels 21. For example, in response to an operation by the occupant at the control receiver 133, the electromagnetic brake mechanism 62 electromagnetically stops the rotation of the rear wheels 21.

[0051] It is preferable that the mechanical brake mechanism 61 and the electromagnetic brake mechanism 62 are configured to operate in conjunction with each other. This makes it possible to suppress the occurrence of phenomena such as jackknife caused by differences in the braking effectiveness between the mechanical brake mechanism 61 and the electromagnetic brake mechanism 62.

[0052] The front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are connected by a connecting part 30. The connecting part 30 mechanically connects the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20. Furthermore, the connecting part 30 electrically connects the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20. When the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are connected by the connecting part 30, the vehicle 1 is in a state where it can be driven. When the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are separated, the vehicle 1 is in a state where it cannot be driven.

[0053] In this embodiment, since the vehicle 1 has this connection part 30, the user can freely select between a state in which the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are connected and a state in which they are separated. When the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are separated, the force applied to one unit does not affect the other unit. That is, when the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are separated, the user can handle the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 separately.

[0054] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration near the connection section 30. The connection section 30 includes, for example, a connecting portion 31 and a connector 32. The connecting portion 31 is responsible for mechanically connecting the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20, and includes a front-side connecting portion 311 and a rear-side connecting portion 312. The connector 32 is responsible for electrically connecting the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20, and includes a front-side connector 321 and a rear-side connector 322.

[0055] The front connecting portion 311 is attached, for example, to the end of the front frame 12. The rear connecting portion 312 is attached, for example, to the end of the rear frame 22. The front connecting portion 311 and the rear connecting portion 312 have shapes that allow them to fit together. By fitting the front connecting portion 311 and the rear connecting portion 312 together, the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are mechanically connected.

[0056] The front connector 321 is mounted, for example, near the end of the front frame 12. The front connector 321 is electrically connected to, for example, the control receiver 133 and the headlight 14. The rear connector 322 is mounted, for example, near the end of the rear frame 22. The rear connector 322 is electrically connected to, for example, the battery 40. The front connector 321 and the rear connector 322 have a shape that allows them to be mated together. By mating the front connector 321 and the rear connector 322, the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are electrically connected.

[0057] The control unit 100 controls the battery 40, motor 50, connector 32, operation reception unit 133, and lighting (Figure 3). The lighting includes, for example, headlights 14 and taillights 26. The control unit 100 controls the operation of the battery 40 and motor 50 in response to operations received by, for example, the operation reception unit 133.

[0058] The control unit 100 disables the vehicle 1 while the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are not connected. For example, when the front connector 321 and the rear connector 322 are not mated, power is not supplied from the battery 40 to the control receiver 133. Therefore, the occupants cannot turn on the power to the vehicle 1 from the control receiver 133, and the vehicle 1 becomes inoperable.

[0059] <Storage state of Vehicle 1> Figures 6A to 8B show an example of the stored state of vehicle 1. When the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are separated, the user can freely position and store each of the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20. In this case, for example, the handle post 132 and the handle 131 are folded, and the rotation of the handle 131 is suppressed (Figure 2). The extension of the seat post 232 is adjusted to its smallest size (Figure 2). This reduces the space occupied by vehicle 1 when stored.

[0060] Figures 6A and 6B show the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 aligned in the X direction and positioned side by side in the Y direction. By arranging them in this way, the space occupied by the vehicle 1 in the X direction can be reduced.

[0061] Figures 7A and 7B show the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 aligned in the Y direction and positioned side by side in the X direction. In this configuration, for example, a portion of the front unit 10 and a portion of the rear unit 20 overlap in the X direction. This arrangement reduces the space occupied by the vehicle 1 in the X direction.

[0062] Figures 8A and 8B show the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 aligned in the X and Y directions, and arranged side by side in the Z direction. By arranging them in this way, the space occupied by the vehicle 1 in the X and Y directions can be reduced.

[0063] Vehicle 1 may further include fastening members that can be used when stored.

[0064] Figures 9A and 9B show an example of the configuration of the binding member 70. The binding member 70 plays the role of binding the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 together when the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are separated. This makes it easier for the user to transport the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 when they are separated.

[0065] For example, a portion of the front unit 10 and a portion of the rear unit 20 are housed in the binding member 70. The front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are housed in the binding member 70 such that, for example, the rotation direction of the front wheels 11 and the rotation direction of the rear wheels 21 are parallel. Preferably, the binding member 70 has a handle. This allows the user to easily transport the vehicle 1 housed in the binding member 70.

[0066] <Effects of Vehicle 1> In the vehicle 1 according to this embodiment, the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are configured to be separable, so the user can store the vehicle with the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 separated. This improves the flexibility of the arrangement of the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20. Therefore, it is possible to improve the storage capacity of the vehicle 1.

[0067] Furthermore, the user can transport the front unit 10 and rear unit 20 separately when they are separated. Therefore, the user can transport the vehicle 1 easily with less force.

[0068] Furthermore, since vehicle 1 does not require a complex folding mechanism, it is possible to improve the storage capacity of vehicle 1 while maintaining a high level of design aesthetics.

[0069] In addition, users can select their preferred combination from a variety of combinations of the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20. For example, users can select the color of the front unit 10 and the color of the rear unit 20 separately.

[0070] Furthermore, in vehicle 1, the rear unit 20 is equipped with a battery 40 and a motor 50. This allows power to be supplied from the battery 40 to the motor 50 without going through the connector 32. Thus, it is possible to reduce the load on the connector 32 caused by the large current supplied from the battery 40 to the motor 50.

[0071] Furthermore, in vehicle 1, the rear wheels 21 are braked by an electromagnetic brake mechanism 62. This eliminates the need for a wire to mechanically brake the rear wheels 21. More specifically, it eliminates the need for a wire connecting the operating receiver 133 of the front unit 10 to the rear wheels 21. Therefore, it becomes easier to separate the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20.

[0072] As described above, in the vehicle 1 according to this embodiment, the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are configured to be separable, which makes it possible to improve the storage capacity of the vehicle 1.

[0073] The following describes modified examples of the above embodiments. Components similar to those in the previously described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0074] [Variation 1] Figure 10 shows an example of the configuration of Vehicle 1 according to Modification 1. This Vehicle 1 has an insertion member 80 provided between the front connecting portion 311 and the rear connecting portion 312. Except for this point, Vehicle 1 according to Modification 1 has the same configuration as Vehicle 1 described in the above embodiment and provides the same effects and advantages.

[0075] The insert member 80 is configured to be insertable between the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 when the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are connected by the connecting portion 30. The insert member 80 includes, for example, a columnar member having a predetermined size in the X direction. The insert member 80 is made of, for example, the same material as the front frame 12 and the rear frame 22. Together with the front frame 12 and the rear frame 22, the insert member 80 functions as the frame of the vehicle 1.

[0076] By providing this insertion member 80 between the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20, it becomes possible to adjust the distance between the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20. Therefore, it becomes possible to adjust the size of the vehicle 1 to suit the occupant's physique, etc.

[0077] [Variation 2] Figure 11 shows an example of the configuration of Vehicle 1 according to Modification 2. This Vehicle 1 is a transport cart. Except for this point, Vehicle 1 according to Modification 2 has the same configuration as Vehicle 1 described in the above embodiment and provides the same effects and advantages.

[0078] Vehicle 1 has a front unit 90 instead of the front unit 10 of the above embodiment. The front unit 90 has front wheels 91, a front frame 92, a steering device 93, and a basket 94. The front wheels 91, front frame 92, and steering device 93 have the same configuration and function as the front wheels 11, front frame 12, and steering device 13.

[0079] The basket 94 is configured to carry materials and other cargo. The basket 94 is attached, for example, to the front frame 92. For example, the front wheel 91 is attached to the basket 94.

[0080] Vehicle 1 may be a vehicle other than a transport cart, for example, a stroller or pet transport vehicle, a vehicle used for various purposes such as cleaning work, farming, lawn mowing, snow removal, or construction. In this vehicle 1, for example, the type of vehicle 1 can be changed by selecting a front unit according to the purpose from among several types of front units.

[0081] The control unit 100 may control the output of the motor 50 differently depending on the type of front unit connected to the connection unit 30. For example, the control unit 100 controls the output of the motor 50 by detecting the type of front unit connected to the connection unit 30. For example, when the front unit 90 is connected to the connection unit 30, the control unit 100 reduces the output of the motor 50 compared to when the front unit 10 is connected to the connection unit 30. Alternatively, when a predetermined front unit is connected to the connection unit 30, the control unit 100 may increase the output of the motor 50 compared to when the front unit 10 is connected to the connection unit 30.

[0082] [Variation 3] Figure 12 shows an example of the configuration of Vehicle 1 according to Modification 3. In this Vehicle 1, a battery 40 and a motor 50 are provided in the front unit 10. Except for this point, Vehicle 1 according to Modification 3 has the same configuration as Vehicle 1 described in the above embodiment and provides the same effects and advantages.

[0083] The battery 40 is housed, for example, within the front frame 12. The motor 50 is mounted, for example, on the front wheel 11 and drives the front wheel 11. The electromagnetic brake mechanism 62 uses the motor 50 to electromagnetically brake the front wheel 11. The mechanical brake mechanism 61 mechanically brakes the rear wheel 21. In this case, the mechanical brake mechanism 61 includes a wire connecting the operating receiver 133 of the front unit 10 and the rear wheel 21. It is preferable that this wire detachably connects the front unit 10 and the rear wheel 21. This makes it easier to separate the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20.

[0084] The control unit 100 disables the vehicle 1 while the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are not connected. For example, when the front connector 321 and the rear connector 322 are not mated, the control unit 100 detects that power is not being supplied to the taillights 26, etc., and controls the system to prevent power from being supplied from the battery 40 to the motor 50. As a result, the vehicle 1 becomes inoperable.

[0085] [Variation 4] Figure 13 shows an example of the configuration of Vehicle 1 according to Modification 4. In this Vehicle 1, a battery 40 is provided in the front unit 10, and a motor 50 is provided in the rear unit 20. Except for this point, Vehicle 1 according to Modification 4 has the same configuration as Vehicle 1 described in the above embodiment and provides the same effects and advantages.

[0086] The battery 40 is housed, for example, within the front frame 12. The motor 50 is mounted, for example, on the rear wheel 21 and drives the rear wheel 21. The electromagnetic brake mechanism 62 uses the motor 50 to electromagnetically brake the rear wheel 21. The mechanical brake mechanism 61 mechanically brakes the front wheel 11. The control unit 100 controls the vehicle 1 to be immobile when the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are not connected, for example, as described in the modified example 3 above.

[0087] In this type of vehicle 1, the battery 40 and motor 50 are distributed, so the weight of the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 is less likely to be unevenly distributed. Therefore, the user can transport the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 separately.

[0088] [Variation 5] Figure 14 shows an example of the configuration of Vehicle 1 according to Modification 5. In this Vehicle 1, a motor 50 is provided in the front unit 10, and a battery 40 is provided in the rear unit 20. Except for this point, Vehicle 1 according to Modification 5 has the same configuration as Vehicle 1 described in the above embodiment and provides the same effects and advantages.

[0089] The battery 40 is housed, for example, in the seat post 232. The motor 50 is attached, for example, to the front wheel 11 and drives the front wheel 11. The electromagnetic brake mechanism 62 uses the motor 50 to electromagnetically brake the front wheel 11. The mechanical brake mechanism 61 mechanically brakes the rear wheel 21. In this case, the mechanical brake mechanism 61 includes a wire connecting the handlebars 131 and the rear wheel 21. It is preferable that this wire detachably connects the handlebars 131 and the rear wheel 21. This makes it easier to separate the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20.

[0090] In this type of vehicle 1, the battery 40 and motor 50 are distributed, so the weight of the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 is less likely to be unevenly distributed. Therefore, the user can transport the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 separately.

[0091] The control unit 100 controls the vehicle 1 to be unable to move while the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 are not connected, for example, as described in the above embodiment.

[0092] [Variation 6] Figures 15A and 15B show an example of the configuration near the connection portion 30 of the vehicle 1 according to Modification 6. Figure 15A shows an example of the configuration of the XZ plane near the connection portion 30, and Figure 15B shows an example of the configuration of the XY plane near the connection portion 30. In this vehicle 1, the connection portion 30 has a lock lever 33, a stopper lever 34, a groove 12R, and a projection 22P, etc. The lock lever 33 and the stopper lever 34 are attached to the front frame 12, for example. For example, the front frame 12 is provided with a groove 12R, and the rear frame 22 is provided with a projection 22P. For example, a front-side connector 321 is provided in the groove 12R. For example, a rear-side connector 322 is provided in the projection 22P. Except for this point, the vehicle 1 according to Modification 6 has the same configuration as the vehicle 1 described in the above embodiment and provides the same effects.

[0093] For example, after the user engages the grooves 12R, 12RA with the protrusions 22P, 22PA, the user rotates the lock lever 33 in the XZ plane. This lowers the stopper lever 34, mechanically connecting the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20, and electrically connecting the front connector 321 and the rear connector 322. For example, the user raises the stopper lever 34, and while keeping the stopper lever 34 raised, rotates the lock lever 33 in the opposite direction in the XZ plane. This makes the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 separable. In this state, the user lifts the protrusions 22P, 22PA from the grooves 12R, 12RA, mechanically separating the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20, and electrically separating the front connector 321 and the rear connector 322.

[0094] Figures 16A to 17B show a more specific example of the configuration of this connection section 30. Figures 16A and 17A show the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 separated, while Figures 16B and 17B show the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 connected.

[0095] The lock lever 33 is connected to, for example, an eccentric cam 331, pinions 332 and 334, and a lock pin 333, which operate in conjunction with each other. The stopper lever 34 is connected to a stopper pin 341, which also operates in conjunction with each other.

[0096] When the user rotates the lock lever 33, the eccentric cam 331 rotates (Figure 16A). For example, the rotation of this eccentric cam 331 causes the rear frame 22, which is mounted on the front frame 12, to move, and the rear frame 22 comes into close contact with the front frame 12 (Figure 16B). This connects the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20, and restricts the range of motion of the connection part 30 in the X direction.

[0097] When the lock lever 33 is rotated, the pinions 332 and 334 rotate together with the eccentric cam 331 (Figure 17A). As the pinions 332 and 334 rotate, the lock pin 333 moves, and the lock pin 333 is positioned across the front frame 12 and the rear frame 22 (Figure 17B). The pinions 332 and 334 are configured to change the amount of movement by combining large and small gears with different numbers of teeth, so that small rotations of the lock lever 33 can be converted into large movements of the lock pin 333. The number, shape, and arrangement of the pinions 332 and 334 are not limited to the example in Figure 17A. Then, as the lock pin 333 moves, the stopper pin 341 positioned on the lock pin 333 moves down, for example by spring force, restricting the movement of the lock pin 333. When the stopper pin 341 moves down, the stopper lever 34 moves down. This restricts the range of motion of the connection part 30 in the Y and Z directions. In this way, the connection between the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 is locked.

[0098] In the vehicle 1 according to modification 6, the connection between the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 is locked by the eccentric cam 331 and the lock pin 333. Specifically, in the connected state of the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20, the range of motion in all directions (X, Y, and Z) of the connection part 30 is restricted, so a strong fastening between the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 is possible.

[0099] The vehicle and vehicle parts of the present invention have been described above in embodiments and modifications. However, the present invention can be appropriately added to, modified, and omitted by those skilled in the art within the scope of its technical concept. For example, the configuration, shape, and size of each part of the vehicle and vehicle parts described above in embodiments and modifications are examples only, and other configurations, shapes, and sizes may be used.

[0100] For example, Figure 1 shows a bar-shaped handle 131, but the handle 131 may have other shapes. The handle 131 may, for example, be round. Alternatively, the steering device 13 does not have to have a handle post 132.

[0101] Furthermore, the steering fixing part may be a member that prevents the rotation of the steering wheel 131 using a magnet or hook, etc.

[0102] Furthermore, although the above embodiments and modifications describe an example in which the handle post 132 can be bent with the mounting portion 13C as the pivot point, the handle post 132 may be configured to be bent with a pivot point at other positions. For example, the handle post 132 may be configured to be bent at a position between one end and the other end of the handle post 132.

[0103] Furthermore, in the above modified example 6, an example in which an eccentric cam 331 and a locking pin 333 are used together was described as an example of the connection part 30, but the connection part 30 may consist of either the eccentric cam 331 or the locking pin 333 alone. For example, the range of motion of the connection part 30 in the X direction may be limited by the eccentric cam 331, and the range of motion of the connection part 30 in the Y and Z directions may be limited by frictional force.

[0104] Furthermore, the configuration of the connecting portion 30 is not limited to the configuration described in the above embodiments and modifications. The connecting portion 30 only needs to be able to connect the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 in a separable manner, and may have other configurations. For example, the connecting portion 30 may include a hook or lever for engaging the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20 instead of the eccentric cam 331. Alternatively, the connecting portion 30 may include an electromagnet for separably connecting the front unit 10 and the rear unit 20. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0105] 1 vehicle, 10 Front Unit 11 Front wheels, 12 front frame, 13. Steering system, 131 handle, 132 Handlebar post, 13C Mounting part 14 Headlights, 20 Rear unit, 21 Rear wheel, 22 Rear frame, 23. Passenger support section, 231 saddle, 232 seatpost, 24 tail lights, 25 Number plate, Number 26, 30 connection part, 31 Connecting part, 311 Front side connecting section, 312 Rear side connecting section, 32 connectors, 321 Front connector, 322 Rear connector, 40 batteries, 50 motors, 100 Control unit.

Claims

1. A front unit having front wheels, A rear unit having rear wheels, A connecting portion is provided between the front unit and the rear unit, and the front unit and the rear unit are detachably connected. A vehicle that is drivable when the front unit and the rear unit are connected by the aforementioned connection part.

2. The aforementioned front unit is The front frame to which the front wheel is attached, The vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising a steering device that accepts steering input from an occupant.

3. The aforementioned rear unit is The rear frame to which the aforementioned rear wheel is attached, The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a passenger support section capable of supporting an occupant.

4. The vehicle according to claim 2, further comprising a steering fixing portion capable of preventing the rotation of the steering device when the front unit and the rear unit are separated.

5. The steering device is A handle held by the aforementioned occupant, Includes a handle post extending between the handle and the front frame, The steering fixing part is, A first folding mechanism that makes the handle post foldable, The vehicle according to claim 4, further comprising a second folding mechanism that makes the handle foldable.

6. A motor that drives at least one of the front wheel and the rear wheel, A battery that supplies power to the motor, The vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising:

7. The vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the battery and the motor are provided in the rear unit.

8. The vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the battery is provided in the front unit and the motor is provided in the rear unit.

9. The vehicle according to claim 7 or 8, further comprising an electromagnetic brake mechanism that uses the motor to electromagnetically brake the rear wheels.

10. The vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the battery and the motor are provided in the front unit.

11. The vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the motor is provided in the front unit and the battery is provided in the rear unit.

12. The vehicle according to claim 10 or 11, further comprising an electromagnetic brake mechanism that uses the motor to electromagnetically brake the front wheel.

13. A mechanical brake mechanism for mechanically braking the aforementioned rear wheel, The vehicle according to claim 12, further comprising a wire that detachably connects the rear wheel and the front unit.

14. The vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the connection portion includes a connector that electrically connects the front unit and the rear unit.

15. The vehicle according to claim 1, 2, or 6, further comprising a first control unit for controlling the vehicle to be unable to move when the front unit and the rear unit are separated.

16. The vehicle according to claim 6, further comprising a second control unit that controls the output of the motor differently depending on the type of front unit connected to the connection portion.

17. The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an insertion member that can be inserted between the front unit and the rear unit when the front unit and the rear unit are connected by the connection portion.

18. The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a fastening member for binding the front unit and the rear unit together when the front unit and the rear unit are separated.

19. A front unit to which the front wheel can be attached, A rear unit to which the rear wheel can be attached, A connecting portion is provided between the front unit and the rear unit, and connects the front unit and the rear unit so as to be separable. A vehicle component equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

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